Though the monastic writings of St John Cassian have been enduringly popular, his reputation (not least as a theological author) has been seriously compromised. A. M. C. Casiday begins with an evaluation of conventional ideas about Cassian and, finding them seriously flawed, offers the first sustained attempt at re-reading Cassian's works for their theological significance. Specific attention is called to the Christological aspects of Cassian's monastic anthropology. Throughout, reference is made to Cassian's contemporaries - both well-known figures like Augustine of Hippo, Evagrius Ponticus, Vincent of L rins, and Nestorius, and lesser-known figures such as Prosper of Aquitaine, Valerian of Cimiez, and Paul of Tamma - in order to offer an analysis of Cassian's writings and their significance that is unencumbered by anachronism.

The Book of Judith tells the story of a fictitious Jewish woman beheading the general of a powerful army to free her people. The parabolic story was set as an example of how God will help the righteous. Judith's heroic action not only became a validating charter myth of Judaism itself but has also been appropriated by many Christian and secular groupings, and has been an inspiration for numerous literary texts and works of art. It continues to exercise its power over artists, authors and academics and is becoming a major field of research in its own right.The Sword of Judith is the first multidisciplinary collection of essays to discuss representations of Judith throughout the centuries. It transforms our understanding across a wide range of disciplines. The collection includes new archival source studies, the translation of unpublished manuscripts, the translation of texts unavailable in English, and Judith images and music.

for SATB and organ This Easter anthem sets an evocative text by J. M. C. Crum. Stately, expressive vocal lines are underpinned by a lively organ part, with crisp staccato melismas that pop out of the texture.

for SATB and organ or orchestra This radiant anthem is an arrangement of William F. Smith's hymn tune 'Lattimer', frequently paired with the popular gospel song 'This little light of mine'. Wilberg gives each section of the choir a presentation of the melody, beginning with the sopranos, before building towards a climactic finish with new harmony and texture as light spreads 'across the land'.

for SATB (with divisions) and piano Brimming with groove and energy, this is a terrific arrangement of the popular spiritual. Chilcott's syncopated melodies and jazzy harmonies are well supported by the piano accompaniment, which features a walking bass. Perfect for adding a bit of spark to any concert programme. Originally published in Spirituals for Choirs.

for SATB (with divisions) and piano This is a high energy, foot-tap inducing setting of a well-known text. The bluesy melodies, jazzy harmonies, and swung rhythms give the piece a gospel feel and fill you with the infectious urge to boogie along to the music. Powerful voices and enthusiasm required. An optional bass and drum kit part is available as a free PDF download from the OUP website. Also available in a version for SSA and piano.

for SATB unaccompanied This is an energetic setting of a text by Jennifer Thorp that celebrates and encourages festivities during Christmas time. With a fast tempo, Young's lively melodies are full of syncopated rhythms and supported by colourful harmonies in the accompanying voices. A rhythmic ostinato throughout reinforces an alternative Christmas message from the poet: 'oh come and dance'!

for SATB unaccompanied This gentle carol sets a well-known text, 'Balulalow', that paints an image of Mary singing a lullaby to Jesus. Bullard's gentle sways and lilting rhythms reflect the story, while soft dynamics and warm harmonies create a tender quality throughout. The third verse begins emphatically, praising the 'gift' of the New Year, before finishing on a tranquil, contemplative note.

for SATB unaccompanied or with optional handbells (or percussion, or organ) Sarah Quartel brings a fresh take on a familiar fifteenth-century text in this enchanting carol. The dialogue between Mary and the infant Jesus is woven to a beguiling folk-like melody, in 6/8 metre, through each of the voice parts, with each verse ending in the lilting refrain 'Lully, by by, lullay'. The carol may be sung unaccompanied, though for added sparkle there is an optional part for handbells (or percussion or organ). Also available in a version for upper voices.

for SATB unaccompanied with optional congregation William Blake's poem, 'A Cradle Song', is brought to life in this elegant setting by Chilcott. The gentle, recurring melody is passed from sopranos to altos, supported by 'oo's and 'ah's in the lower voices. In the last section, the congregation (or semi-chorus) joins in with 'Away in a manger', which is skilfully weaved into the vocal texture as a countermelody. This is truly a carol for everyone.

for SATB and piano Ring the bells is a joyful setting of a text by Frances Crosby that celebrates the coming of Christmas. Written in a lively compound time, the carol explores one melodic refrain through numerous keys and textures, giving each verse a different energy. The voices are supported by resonant harmonies in the piano that cheerfully mimic the 'bells' and 'harps' in the text.

for SA (with soprano solo) and piano This thought-provoking carol takes up the topical theme of the plight of refugees, drawing parallels with the stories and reception of Christ's birth. The text, by the composer, alludes to familiar lines from the Coventry Carol, rooting the piece in tradition while encouraging us to consider our present. The verses feature contrasting textures and changing metres, while a soft, reflective refrain stands steadfastly in triple metre. This carol was originally published in a version for unaccompanied mixed voices, with soprano solo.

for SSA and piano This is a high energy, foot-tap inducing setting of a well-known text. The bluesy melodies, jazzy harmonies, and swung rhythms give the piece a gospel feel and fill you with the infectious urge to boogie along to the music. Powerful voices and enthusiasm required. Also available in a version for SATB and piano. An optional bass and drum kit part is available as a free PDF download from the OUP website.

for SATB and piano or organ or trio A lilting 3/4 metre carries the listener through this familiar Christmas story, beautifully depicted in a text by the composer. Rutter employs artful word-painting throughout, and the verse-refrain structure enables the compelling melody to soon become as familiar as any traditional carol of the season. Christ our Emmanuel may be accompanied by piano or organ, or by flute, oboe, and harp. Two versions of the vocal score are available: one with piano accompaniment and one with organ accompaniment. Full scores and parts are available for purchase.

for SATB and piano or organ or trio A lilting 3/4 metre carries the listener through this familiar Christmas story, beautifully depicted in a text by the composer. Rutter employs artful word-painting throughout, and the verse-refrain structure enables the compelling melody to soon become as familiar as any traditional carol of the season. Christ our Emmanuel may be accompanied by piano or organ, or by flute, oboe, and harp. Two versions of the vocal score are available: one with piano accompaniment and one with organ accompaniment. Full scores and parts are available for purchase.

A welcome collection of piano transcriptions made by the composer himself, featuring eight of his best-loved choral pieces spanning the last 40 years. Designed for pianists at early intermediate level, the collection provides skilful and approachable arrangements of classics such as 'The Lord bless you and keep you', 'All things bright and beautiful', and 'For the beauty of the earth', as well as recent gems like 'A flower remembered', all for performance use or enjoyment at home. Clearly presented and laid out, the transcriptions also include the texts (lyrics) within the piano score, for reference or potential sing-alongs. This is a versatile collection for the many admirers of one of today's greatest choral composers. The pieces in this collection have been recorded by Wayne Marshall on Decca Records.